They Call Me "Diddy"

As most of you are aware, in addition to my day job at ESPN Charlotte, I also own and operate a boutique public relations firm, I blog (sometimes) and work on several philanthropic and community initiatives. Well, as a result of my often over scheduled and busy entrepreneurial lifestyle, I was nicknamed “Diddy” by two of my good friends a few years ago…at first I was embarrassed. After all, Diddy’s public persona when it comes to business is that he is shrewd, demanding and a perfectionist. I didn’t want people to think that I was some overbearing diva who always had to have my way; but upon closer observation and introspection, I realized that the moniker the guys gave me was a compliment and a testament to the personal brand that I have built for myself. Yes, Diddy does seem to be all of the things that I described, but additionally, he is an incredible business man who works harder than anyone on his team. He is loyal, dedicated and fair to his team. When he works; everyone on the team works, but when he parties, everyone parties right along with him.

Today I embrace my inner “Diddy.” Today I own my faults and flaws along with my talents and strengths—because it all adds up who I am, my brand, my life, me. God put this together, who am I to argue.

I will not apologize for my needs—I require a certain amount of attention from those in my circle, from my friends, my family, my team. If it’s too much, then you don’t need to be in the circle. I am who I am. I am difficult at times, I can be a rollercoaster of emotions, I am loving, I am indulgent, I am emotionally spoiled, I am giving, I am tolerant, I am judgmental, I can be a diva, and I can be laid back…but what I am is real---every day of the week. Solid. Sensitive to the needs of every person who I call friend…and even to those I don’t. I am an open book, often to the detriment of my own personal happiness. But the days of my apologizing for who I am…emotional, vulnerable female one moment or strong independent woman the next…is over. I am complex simplicity. Take it, leave it; it no longer matters to me. The only person I have to answer to already died for my sins---no one else bears that cross.

Time to brush the dirt off my shoulders and keep it moving; each day is precious. I refuse to waste one more second that Christ has blessed me with…How are you making the most of your life? I challenge you all to embrace and revel in the wonderfulness that is you.

"Creativity is a Drug I can't live without"
Follow Me on Twitter @JamekaShamae
Visit My Other Blog: Diary of A Dating Diva

All About the Men

Truly, there is nothing I enjoy more than being surrounded by professional men of all ethnicities who appreciate fashion, embrace an entrepreneurial spirit (not too mention good ole common sense thrown in for flavor), have impeccable taste, are socially aware and have a keen sense of personal style.  These are the guys I love to flirt with at parties.  So, in an effort to let these fellas know just how special they are, Charlotte STYLE teamed up with JSW & Crave Dessert Bar for The STYLE Suite: Men's Appreciation Event.  During the evening, men in the Charlotte area will have the opportunity to be pampered...Why?  Because we can...and we like you (at least I know I do).

The event is hosted by the beautiful and talented Kelly Hood, and will feature a fashion showcase, desserts, giveaways, complimentary massages and MANicures. 

Fellas, let us take care of you.  Come on out Thursday, June 24th from 6pm-10pm.  Guys, come have a nice relaxing evening and let us cater to you.  Ladies- I wouldn't miss it. This event is free...and it is truly ALL about the men!  I'm excited to get my flirt on...are you with me?

"Creativity is a Drug I can't live without"

Prayers Answered…

I haven’t blogged lately…the reason? I have TOO much to say. With all of the happenings of late, there is just too much for me to discuss. Do I start with the fabulous Charlotte STYLE Magazine issue release party by the pool of the luxurious Ballantyne Hotel & Lodge…or the incredible NABFEME Charlotte/Amped 4-A-Cure Women Who Jam! concert …perhaps I discuss where I was and what I was doing when I got the tweet that The King of Pop was dead…and of course the shocking circumstances surrounding the murders of both Steve McNair and Arturo Gatti (crimes of passion on the rise?). It’s been a riveting, traumatic, exhausting and emotionally turbulent past 30 days. But hey, I’m still standing—with a smile.

As far as my clients go, I could not be happier.

Author/Poet Onika Pascal did her first feature and book signing in Brooklyn on June 29th, and according to my sources, worked magic on the crowd. As I mentioned earlier, Bridgette Wright, publisher/editorial director of Charlotte STYLE Magazine debuted the new cover of the summer issue at the magazine’s summer soiree, with all the bells and whistles (fashion show produced by theFASHION HOUSE with designer swimwear and jewelry sponsored by Tiffany & Co.). The soiree was also a resounding “success” as a fundraiser for Dress For Success Charlotte. 5th and York’s debut album release party for their latest project “Nascentum” was on June 20th and I have to say, my boys ROCKED the house. Special shout to Mr. Montayne Farrar for making the trip up all the way up from Atlanta to support us. I’m always appreciative of support when it comes. The planning for the Charlotte Literary Festival as well as the ongoing Change Event Series has been phenomenal. So far we have had appearances from Nikki Giovanni, Dr. Cornel West and Dick Gregory—all living legends in their own right. Also, my other clients are definitely making moves, most of which are top secret at the moment…HOPEFULLY they will give me the green light soon to be able to share what they have been up to.

On a personal note, things have been just as hectic and wonderful.

The women’s ministry of my church, Faith, Hope & Love Fellowship Worship Center organized our first “Legacy of Love” Celebration in remembrance of Pastor Carolyn Tyson-Colbert’s life. I even performed a dance solo that I choreographed myself to honor her memory. Apparently I did a good job because they want me to dance again…yeah, not sure about that one. I’m still sore; there may not be an encore performance, but we shall see—just don’t hold your breath.

My twin siblings, Angel and Akeem turn 21 on July 30th. Whoa is all I can say. I still remember them both crawling around wearing matching onesies barely able to pronounce “Meek Meek.” (OMG- did I just throw myself under the bus by sharing one of my family’s nicknames for me…great). I am planning the big blowout party of course. Should be fun, at least that is the goal.

Dealing with Father’s Day and Daddy’s birthday (July 3rd) was a HUGE reminder that Pop’s is no longer here in the physical realm. It does make me sad to know that I will never again get one of those big bear hugs or kisses on the forehead…or hearing Daddy’s incredibly bad jokes…or better yet, being lectured at length on entrepreneurship and how to continue to build my business model (not to mention the hour long discussions about marketing, advertising and investments). Daddy was challenging…he was cool…he was unique...he was far from perfect, but he was mine. It’s interesting that it takes his passing to realize that I was such a Daddy’s girl…hindsight is something, ain’t it?

I always try to pray for my friends and family on a daily basis. 1) Because I would want someone to care enough to pray for me and 2) I just love the people in my life so much that I want them to experience the intense joy that having God in my life has afforded me. Pray can ensure that…After my father died in February 2008, I prayed. I specifically asked God for one thing in particular…Out of all of my friends, clients and associates, please remove those individuals who are not supposed to be in my life and replace them with the people who are supposed to be there. My prayers were answered by the summer. I have no regrets, and I still love those unconditionally who are no longer in my life, but if my father’s death taught me one thing…I don’t have time to play around. Life, Love and Living is too important not to make the most out of each moment, every day.

I still have a lot going on and even more to say, but that will have to wait until another day.

"Creativity is a Drug I can't live without"

NABFEME Charlotte Presents: Women Who Jam!

The Charlotte Network of The National Association of Black Female Executives in Music and Entertainment (NABFEME) presents “Women Who Jam” an exclusive concert series featuring independent female musical acts from across the Carolinas.

“Women Who Jam” is one of NABFEME Charlotte’s signature events and serves to highlight female music artists in an entertaining and supportive atmosphere. This year the “Women Who Jam” concert will be held June 24, 2009 at Utopia Soundstage in Charlotte’s University area.

To celebrate the essence of “Women Who Jam” NABFEME Charlotte will honor three women who truly jam—media personalities Chirl Girl, Consuella and Ife Moore. Celebrated Poet and Spoken Word Artist Bluz will serve as the evening’s host and Master of Ceremonies.

Not only will the concert provide a platform for these artists to showcase their talents, a portion of proceeds earned will go toward Amped 4-A-Cure, a new initiative providing support to cancer research through the universal language of music. NABFEME Charlotte has a strong tradition of supporting community based initiatives and charitable causes.

Doors open at 7:00 p.m. and the concert will begin at 8:00 p.m. Utopia is located at 10210 Berkeley Place Drive in Charlotte. Tickets are $15.00 at the door. For more information, contact Jameka Whitten at 704.965.3297 or jwhitten@nabfemecharlotte.org.

About NABFEME Charlotte
NABFEME is the National Association of Black Female Executives in Music & Entertainment™ a non-profit professional organization dedicated to the support and empowerment of women of color in recorded music, the media and related entertainment industry fields. NABFEME is committed to the development of support programs and the creation of alliances that will assist our members in achieving their personal and professional goals. Founded October 2006, the Charlotte Network of NABFEME is committed to building a Network of professionals, students, and community entertainment leaders that will bring synergy to the Charlotte entertainment industry. http://www.nabfemecharlotte.org/

About Amped 4-A-Cure
Amped 4-A-Cure’s mission is simple: to raise funds to support cancer research through the universal language of music. Some of the ways planned to raise funds is through mini concerts to be held in cities nationwide; partnering with existing concert series, music inspired events, and select live music venues to make all of their events official “Amped 4-A-Cure” events to raise funds and awareness; a major concert in December featuring both major recording artists and independents as a finale for their 2009 Million Dollar Campaign; and sales of compilation CDs. Donations and proceeds generated from fundraising efforts go towards Amped-4-A-Cure’s 2009 beneficiary, The American Association for Cancer Research. To learn more, visit www.amped4acure.org



"Creativity is a Drug I can't live without"

Atlanta International Fashion Week Seeks Charlotte Based Talent

This event is presented by Atlanta International Fashion Week and hosted by the|Fashion House (www.the-fashionhouse.com). If you are a designer or model, this free event is for you.


"Creativity is a Drug I can't live without"

Power Struggle

I don't do sick well...I am NOT a good sick person. I'm often standoffish and beligerent when coughing, sneezing and experiencing all of the lovely cold and flu like symptons that accompany this time of year, welcome to spring ladies and gentlemen. . I'm, also, almost always in denial when I am under the weather; denial you ask? Basically, I have been sick for three days; however, I just accepted and acknowledged that I was actually ill after being forciable awaken at approximately 3:09 a.m. from the most hideous sinus headache that I have ever had the misfortune to experience. So, yeah, maybe I'm sick--I'll accept that (smh, talk about stubborn, I feel sorry for my future husband, lol).

Yet I march on...

But enough about my body aches, runny nose and stuffy head (sexy image right fellas). The last two weeks have been phenomenal both personally and professionally:

Professionally speaking:

All the events for CIAA were not only successful but just plain fun. Click below to see photos from all three events. Big ups to Marlon & Kenny from NC Image Zone for capturing everything on film (well digital)

Paparazzi Friday (2/27)- check back for photos

Saturday Style Day Party (2/28)

Jazz Infusion (2/28)

A huge congrats for hometown favs Johnson C. Smith University for claiming both the mens and womens championship titles for the tourney. Go Golden Bulls!

Special Thanks to everyone, including all of our sponsors who really pulled together to make everything a resounding sucess. But a big hug goes out to the fam: Dany, Ciara, Elise, Ayanna, Rocky, Jonell, Haleigh, Xavier, Tasha, Will, Marlon, Kenny and Nicole for just being supportive and getting the work done without hesitation...Love y'all.

The takeover begins now:-)

Personally Speaking:

I love my sisters. Three of the four "Cherry" girls got the chance to hang out last week. Angel even helped out at the fashion show with makeup (love having talented siblings). Here is a pic from the festivities

"Creativity is a Drug I can't live without"

JSW Media Group

So in an effort to make my life easier, I have created a blog that is specifically for company news only. It's still under construction, but Check it out each day for happenings, news and events. JSW Pulse

This blog will continue to be my creative outlet to the world. Also, on an unrelated note, RIP HOM Nightclub...one of my favorite spots has closed its doors...sad.


"Creativity is a Drug I can't live without"

Happy Monday

Monday mornings are always rough for me, not just because it is the start of the traditional work week (which doesn’t really apply to me because when you own a business, work full time and freelance write, you work 24/7) but because it means that everything that I didn’t get a chance over weekend is now piled on my plate first thing Monday…I refuse to complain, however, this is the life I chose—and I love it. Call me a workaholic, glutton for punishment or any other interesting moniker, but at the end of the day, I’m here in this place….and happy to be here.

Anyway, one of the things I was able to do this weekend was solidify my CIAA event schedule…these are intimate, upscale events, so please secure your tickets early. All events will take place at PJ’s Lounge in the Epicentre in Uptown Charlotte. Expect to have a great time and to be treated like a VIP. Join us and truly party with a purpose.

February 27, 2009
Paparazzi Friday
Doors open at 8:00 p.m.
Admission is $10.00 before 11 p.m.
Dress Code: Fashion Forward. No Athletic Gear.
Paparazzi Friday is a creative vision featuring a live photo shoot in an upbeat, lounge environment, providing entertaining stimulus for all patrons. Music provided by dj rsenal. A portion of proceeds will benefit the Charlotte Literary Festival. Half priced bottles of wine, half priced tapas and $2.00 domestics.

February 28, 2009
Saturday Style Day Party
11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. (Fashion Show @ 2 p.m.)
Admission: $10.00 before 1 p.m.
Dress Code: Casual Chic. No Athletic Gear.
Mini Fashion Show and Cocktail Party. This event will serve at the official kick off for To Serve With Love Ministries, an organization dedicated to the battle against homelessness. Music provided by dj rsenal. A portion of the proceeds will benefit To Serve With Love. Drink Specials on Specialty Martinis and half-priced appetizers.

February 28, 2009
Jazz Infusion
Doors Open at 7:00 p.m. (Band starts at 9 p.m.)
Admission: $15.00 before 9 p.m.
Dress Code: Upscale Chic, Cocktail attire encouraged
Lounge environment for those seeking something a little different during CIAA weekend, complete with a live band (5th and York, http://www.5thandyork.com/) playing elements of jazz, soul and funk from 9 p.m.-10 p.m. and a DJ spinning acid jazz the rest of the night. Drink Specials on Specialty Martinis and half-priced appetizers.

Advanced Tickets are available and encouraged. Email events@jswmediagroup.com or call 704.965.3297 for information.

I still have some limited sponsorship opportunities available; please let me know if you are interested in exposure for your business during what is, historically, one of the most popular weeks in Charlotte.


"Creativity is a Drug I can't live without"

Validation Feels Good

Historically the entertainment industry is a cutthroat business. When I first entered the industry as a model (many, many moons ago) I often wondered if I had the stomach for this kind of work. Nevertheless, considering my "hood" background, it ended up being a piece of cake (and I didn't even lose my morals in the process, go figure!). But still from time to time, when I get stabbed in the back on various occasions, deals are lost due to shady behavior or people are just being plain mean, I wonder about the road I am on...but then, someone says something nice and unexpected...and completed unsolicited. Check out the love that one of my clients (and undoubtedly one of the best people that I know) has shown me in her blog. Validation feels good. Thanks for the words Jan. It means a lot to know that you appreciate the work we do for you.





"Creativity is a Drug I can't live without"

New Year, New Expectations

As which is usually the case, my holiday season was quite hectic so I apologize for the lack of posts. I literally spent the last two weeks in meetings and making preparations for the future of JSW Media Group, so, although technically I was on vacation from the day job, I was still hard at work. No rest for the weary.

To say that I am excited about what is to come would be a massive understandment. Deals are on the table, the company has been restructured...my transition phase is over, my team is solid and battle tested. Everyone who is currently in my life is supposed to be there. I go into 2009, refreshed and renewed. 2008 was a hard year, I lost a lot of loved ones last year...everything from death (Daddy, Pastor Carol, My Cousins, An Aunt, the list goes on), to unreconcilable differences with "friends"(that's the best I can come up with, I still don't know why people disappeared off the face of the earth, such is life, lol).

We only get one life. I'm going to make mine count. I can't be concerned with the past to the point that I don't live in the present, while neglecting the future. If 2008 was the year of transition, then 2009 is the year of fulfillment. I'm blessed, and I refuse to complain. There is too much beauty in the world to discover and fight for to waste time on the "what could have beens." You feel me?

If you are in Charlotte, come hang out with me at my bi monthly networking social: Indulge Thursdays. Details are below:

Indulge Thursdays @ PJ's Coffee & Lounge

Tired of your typical, impersonal business networking events? Then join JSW Media Group on select Thursdays to Indulge in smooth grooves, pleasurable conversation and decadent delicacies for casual networking in an intimate, relaxed and stylish environment.

You are invited to be our special guest on January 8th from 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m. @ PJ's (210 E. Trade Street, Bldg C, 1st Floor, Inside The Epicentre). Enjoy the ideal lounge experience. Representatives from the Charlotte Literary Festival and its new "Change is Coming to Charlotte" series will be on hand to share more about their upcoming events. Come prepared to mix, mingle and network. Food & Drink Specials. Music provided by dj rsenal.

Questions? Email indulge@jswmediagroup.com
Looking forward to seeing you!
JSW Media Group

Happy New Year!!!
Peace & Blessings,
Jameka Shamae

"Creativity is a Drug I can't live without"

Fashion Friday Wrap Up

I was extremely pleased with how the latest Fashion Friday hosted by LA East Boutique turned out. The show was great, the band rocked the house, both DJ's made the crowd move and most of all the models were gorgeous. It was exactly the kind of party event that I envisioned--eclectic, diverse and just plain cool. Special thanks to all who came out. Check out some of the galleries

• Swan Impressions Photography


• NC Image Zone

http://www.fashion-friday.com/ is launching soon...so get ready!

"Creativity is a Drug I can't live without"

Fashion Friday @ KISS Hosted by LA East Boutique

Indulge Thursday (10.16.08)

So the last Indulge Thursdays was great...Apostrophe Lounge hosted a great event in the heart of Southend. Here are some of the photos.

Special Thanks for our sponsor, Cloud 9 Confections for the incredible desserts (people are still raving about the good eats, lol)...and dj rsenal did a great job with the beats as usual. As always it was a very good time.











Our next networking mixer will be on Thursday, November 13th at PJ's located Uptown Charlotte in the Epicenter. This place truly has something for everyone...coffee, drinks, wine, food...you name it, it is there...Plus the ambiance is incredible. Check your email box for your invite.


"Creativity is a Drug I can't live without"

A Girl's Night Out With Style...

The Queen City was infused with a shot of energetic style this past Friday night at Loft 1523. Charlotte Style Magazine officially launched by honoring the 25 most stylish people in the city. I have to give Ms. Bridgette Wright, publisher of Charlotte Style Mag her props for executing an excellent event. Good job to Bridgette and the entire staff...Everyone looked great, and it was truly a good look for Charlotte's style conscious.



Speaking of style, looking to "Indulge"...I'd like to invite my Charlotte readers to come mix, mingle and network with me and the entire JSW Media Group staff at our next installment of Indulge Thursdays, 6:30 p.m.-9:00 p.m. at Apostrophe Lounge located at 1440 S. Tryon Street in the heart of Southend, minutes from Uptown Charlotte. Music by dj rsenal. Email me at jameka(at)jswmediagroup.com if you would like to attend, the event is by special invitation only...


"Creativity is a Drug I can't live without"

Fashion and Style is Alive in the Queen City

Hope to see you around town...



"Creativity is a Drug I can't live without"

Photos from JSW's First Fashion Fridays

"Creativity is a Drug I can't live without"

The Impossible is Possible

Light bulbs flashed, cameras rolled, and champagne flowed freely Saturday night (April 26th) at the Levine Museum of the New South in celebration of independent designer Rob Mackey’s new Spring/Fall collection of trendy urban gear.

Charlotte turned Hollywood chic for Mackey’s show. The line, J. Zemar Originals can be described as fun, flirty and sexy with a touch of edge. The models were energetic and fiercely dominated the catwalk in eye popping, sensual styles. At the beginning of the show, Mackey announced that all of the pieces that he designed specifically for the night were held up at customs, hence forcing him to redo his entire collection. For an entire two days prior, Mackey designed and sewed all new pieces just so he would not disappoint the crowd. Talk about tenacity and working well under pressure—independent designers please take note.

The East Coast's Bad Boy DJ Flemingo provided the ideal musical ambiance. All in all, it was a great look for all involved. A portion of the proceeds from the evening went to Sickle Cell Research, making this a true party with a purpose.

To learn more about J. Zemar Originals, visit www.jzemar.com.

Don’t Talk…Do

My father was a phenomenal entrepreneur. His business acumen was so sharp, that he could wrap up business deals with a single look or nod of the head. Pops was no joke. My mother has always been an entrepreneur. She has owned and operated restaurants, specialty boutiques, a catering and personal chef service and several successful non profits…not to mention being one of the first African American female booking agents in her day—working with the likes of the Ojays, Blue Magic and other Motown greats. So when I say that business is in my blood, I am quite serious. I think that is why hype talk and the every present “I’m doing big things” statement gets on my last nerves.

I am so irritated by those people who love to talk, talk, talk and talk about all the great things they are doing, but you never see the evidence of their so called hard work…I have several monikers, but I bet that there is a product attached to each one of those “titles” I (as well as others) assigned to me. For instance, I model, and guess what I have a resume and photos to prove it. I co-founded a magazine, guess what, 3 years and 12 printed issues later, I have something to show for all of my talk. I wanted to do a radio show, I rounded up one of my good friends, and one year later I have a successful track record of a year’s worth of shows that I not only co-host but produce. Not to mention I write, poetry, articles, web copy, you name it, I write it. But really this is not about all the stuff I do…it’s about people who are all talk and no action. People, just stop talking, and do something. There is nothing wrong with dreaming big; I do it all the time…nevertheless, when it is time to make those dreams a reality, take the opportunity to make it happen. Don’t just talk about it. Be about it.

Peace & Blessings

Another one bites the dust…

Just when I was getting really excited about the prospect of promoting and doing a complete public relations campaign for a female hip hop artist—who is so talented that selling her sexuality doesn’t have to be the number one bullet point on her marketing and promotions plan—I am let down…and disappointed yet again.

I won’t put the artist on blast, but this girl can rap…I mean really flow. And what does she do instead, allow the deviant, bottom of the barrel management/record label pimp her out like a 10 dollar ho…I mean really. Isn’t it getting old ladies? Aren’t you tired of “my neck, my back” being “da baddest bitch” always “droppin’ it like it’s hot” and wondering why women of color are not respected or revered by the world. We complain about not being able to get ahead…well if you stop talking about “giving or receiving head” then you may be able to show someone that you are a great deal more than the sum of your parts, that your assets include more than a pair of stripper shoes, booty shorts and the weave that you paid too much for…yeah, I said it. Ladies, you are not a bitch…stop calling yourself one. Words have power, use your tongue to empower instead of showing how good you can be on your knees. Even if no one else tells you, I’m telling you, you are better than that. Stop selling yourself short, you are worth more than anyone could ever pay you.

We are precious and made glorious by the love of God…act like it! We have to respect ourselves first if we ever expect anyone else to. That’s fact, not fiction. Turning tricks in any capacity (mentally, spiritually or physically) will only do one thing—trap you in a hell of your own design, wondering “how did I end up here.”

Business is Business

I learned a very valuable lesson last week—something I have always been aware of, but I needed a swift kick in the butt to REALLY understand. Business is Business. Business transcends friendships, relationships, family, etc. (insert your own applicable connection).

I got burned a little bit this week. A business associate that I was particularly close to and had subsequently formed a friendship with, showed his true colors. I woke up and realized that this individual has always had ulterior motives and has never worked for or in the best interests of my companies.

Also, one of my clients decided not to renew their agreement with me, which is fine…but they way in which this went down was not done in a respectable or professional manner—unacceptable and I expected more from this individual after all that has transpired over the last year (and beyond). It’s just kinda sad that it has come down to not even respecting someone who has HELPED, not hindered the development of this individual’s career. A simple thanks would have been nice….but, as my mother pointed out to me on our way to church yesterday, that’s not the business that I am in…this industry is cutthroat, shrewd and downright evil at times. Do I plan on getting down and dirty like the rest of the industry? Not at all. What sets me apart is my integrity and morals. I refuse to trade that in for anything. Who I am is too important to sell my soul to fit in and keep up with the Joneses…Not in this lifetime. However, what I have decided to do is to keep everything business…Family, Friends, whatever, it doesn’t matter. No more favors. This is not a community service project; I am in business for a reason.

They say you have to earn respect to get respect…well ladies and gents, it is a new day, consider me Ms. All About My Business from now on. This is not a game, and I ain’t playing…for real. Major shout to my Digital First/URM family…I’m ready to make some moves this year, let’s do it…

Business is Business: the new motto that I will wholeheartedly live by.

Peace & Blessings…